Compared to some of you folks my case is fairly new 1 and a half years.I had a 3 level ACDF a year ago was not sucessful I still have pain numbness and weakness in both arms and hands,shoulders and neck pain is worse now.Besides that I have had mri and have been diagnosed with 3 bulging disks in lower back which cause excruciating pain in back, hips and legs..Dr has already referred me to nuerosurgeon for that matter.Ive been in pain management for 6 months now and unable to work at all.Both my pain management Dr and gp have already written me favorable Dr. questionaires and agree I am unable to work.Should there opinion be good enough for a decision in my favor? Please offer some insight.Grama

Thank you dogmom I already did apply in May 07.Ive been denied twice I have been sceduled to go in front of a judge in Feb.o9 Im in California it seems its a little faster than some of the stories Ive read.I also do have an attorney now so hopefully thatll help. Grama

Oh good for you! I can't believe you've been denied twice (wait, am I saying here? ha ha!I can't believe lots of people are denied with their ailments.)

But at least Feb. isn't that far off and having a lawyer will most certainly help. I wish you all the best! My mom-in-law had problems with her shoulders and back, not nearly as severe as yours, had a spinal fusion, applied for disability and was denied twice . She ended up going in front of a lawyer and was awarded disability immediately. So think positive!